Republic. I like the sound of the word. It means people can live free, talk free, go or come, buy or sell, be drunk or sober, however they choose. Some words can give you a feeling that makes your heart warm. Republic is one of those words. - John Wayne

I've written of several praiseworthy medics from time to time.It takes a special kind of person to charge into gunfire with the sole purpose of saving lives.It is for this type of valor that combat medics or "Docs" are revered by soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines.These warriors know the Combat Medic will place his or her live on the line to render aid when all hell is breaking loose around them.Thus the warriors protect their medics.

In the case of Army Specialist Monica Lin Brown of Lake Jackson, Texas – assigned to the 4th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team deployed to Camp Salerno in Afghanistan – she was called upon to play both the role of warrior and medic.

She put her life on the line – several times – to rescue soldiers wounded during an explosion on April 25, 2007.In order to rescue her comrades she braved insurgent gunfire during her multiple trips to the scene.For her cool actions under intense enemy fire and bravery above and beyond the call of duty, she will be awarded this nation's third highest medal for valor – the Silver Star.

Specialist Brown is the first woman in Afghanistan and only the second woman since World War II to receive this commendation.

I have little to add to the account of her bravery except for this:Hooahh!